Simple Meatballs
Juicy, flavorful meatballs with a hint of nutmeg and herbs, perfect for pasta, mashed potatoes, or salads, appealing to family and casual dinner gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Soak the bread in milk until thoroughly wet.
- Drain the bread well, squeezing out most of the milk, so the crumbs are moist but not dripping.
- Combine the bread crumbs with the ground beef, egg, minced parsley, nutmeg, salt, and pepper.
- Knead the mixture well until fully combined.
- Shape the mixture into balls about an inch in diameter.
- Optional: roll the meatballs in bread crumbs for a crispier exterior.
- Heat a large skillet with olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the meatballs and cook, stirring, until browned on all sides.
- Pour in about half a cup of milk or slightly more into the skillet.
- Partially cover and simmer until the meatballs are cooked through and the sauce thickens.
- Serve the meatballs with sauce spooned over them, alongside salad, spinach, mashed potatoes, or pasta.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider adding minced garlic or grated Parmesan to the meatball mixture. If you don’t have fresh parsley, dried will work, but use half the amount. Instead of ground beef, you can substitute with ground turkey or chicken. If you're short on time, pre-made breadcrumbs can save some effort. This recipe is versatile and pairs well with Italian recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the meatballs over a bed of spaghetti for a classic dish, or pair them with mashed potatoes for a hearty meal. A fresh salad can add a nice contrast to the richness of the meatballs. They also go well with recipes like Zesty Rice Lasagna or Meat And Spinach Lasagna for a complete Italian feast.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place the meatballs in a skillet with a splash of milk over medium heat, partially covered, until heated through. They can also be microwaved, but be cautious not to dry them out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Simple Meatballs contains roughly 84 calories, with 2g protein, 13g carbohydrates, and 3g fat.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I freeze the meatballs?
Yes, you can freeze the meatballs before or after cooking. To freeze uncooked meatballs, place them on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer bag. For cooked meatballs, let them cool completely before freezing. They can be reheated directly from the freezer, but may need additional cooking time.
What can I use instead of milk?
If you prefer a dairy-free option, you can use almond milk, soy milk, or even vegetable broth as a substitute for milk in this recipe. Each will provide moisture, but the flavor may vary slightly. Just ensure the substitute is unsweetened and unflavored for the best results.
How do I know when the meatballs are done?
The meatballs are cooked through when they reach an internal temperature of 160°F (71°C). You can also cut one open to check that it is no longer pink inside. If you’re using a meat thermometer, it’s the most reliable way to ensure they are thoroughly cooked.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).